The days of fall have arrived and it is time for healthy fall eats like pumpkin spice, squash, soup, and spiced tea. Yum! Growing up my mom made squash with butter and brown sugar, and I crave this when fall rolls around in Minnesota. BUT I am a naturopath and butter and brown sugar just do not live in my refrigerator or cupboards. So, I improvised and made a healthier version of the old fashioned acorn squash recipe my mom used to make. I love that this is super easy, tasty, and naturally gluten and dairy free!
Acorn squash is packed with vitamin A, lots of vitamin C, and some iron and calcium too. A half a squash only has about 115 calories.
Not a fan of acorn squash? Butternut squash or you other favorite can be used instead.
Coconut oil can be used instead of butter and still provides great flavor. Organic dark brown sugar is something I have used in baking and it works here too. You can find this at your local health food store like my favorite, Tailor Made Nutrition in Woodbury. This brown sugar is sustainably grown, organic, and rich in flavor. Nutritionally not much different than the light brown sugar typically used, but is better quality. Remember that sugar should be used in moderation. Americans consume an average of 22 teaspoons of sugar per day which adds about 350 calories daily. Yikes. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 6 teaspoons of added sugar per day, but even this seems high. Adding sugar to your food should be a treat and not a habit which is why it is optional in this recipe.
Ingredients:
1. 1 acorn squash halved or quartered
2. 1 tbsp coconut oil
3. Cinnamon
4. Nutmeg
5. Optional: Organic dark brown sugar
Coat with coconut oil and sprinkle spices on squash. Bake at 375 degrees. Add brown sugar after squash has been cooking for about 15 minutes.
Cook time: 20-30 minutes (squash should be soft)